Apparatuses for conditioning air with means to extend exposure time to anti-microorganism lamp

ABSTRACT

An electronic device generates an output airflow that may be subjected to UV radiation from a germicidal lamp within the device. The airflow preferably is created electro-kinetically by coupling a high voltage across an electrode system that includes emitter and collector electrodes. The airflow is also accompanied by generation of ions and/or ozone. Means, such as one or more vanes, are provided to increase the amount of time that the airflow is subjected to UV radiation.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/774,198, filed Jan. 29, 2001,entitled ELECTRO-KINETIC DEVICE WITH ENHANCED ANTI-MICROORGANISMCAPABILITY, which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to devices that cancondition the air in a room, including so-called electro-kinetic devicesthat output ionized air, typically accompanied by ozone (O₃), and morespecifically to providing such devices with enhanced ability to killmicroorganisms, including germs, bacteria, and viruses in the roomenvironment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 6,163,098 to Taylor et al. and U.S. Pat. No.4,789,801 to Lee describe various devices to generate a stream ofionized air using so-called electro-kinetic techniques. In someapplications, the electro-kinetic devices may be small enough to behandheld, and in other applications electro-kinetic devices may be largeenough to condition the air in a room. In overview, electro-kinetictechniques use high electric fields to ionize air molecules, a processthat produces ozone (O₃) as a byproduct. Ozone is an unstable moleculeof oxygen that is commonly produced as a byproduct of high voltagearcing. In safe concentrations, ozone can be a desirable and usefulsubstance. But ozone by itself may not be effective to killmicroorganisms such as germs, bacteria, and viruses in the environmentsurrounding the device.

[0004]FIG. 1 depicts a generic electro-kinetic device 10 to generateozone. Device 10 includes a housing 20 that typically has at least oneair input port 30 and at least one air output port 40. Within housing 20there is disposed an electrode assembly or system 50 comprising a firstelectrode array 60 having at least one electrode 70 and comprising asecond electrode array 80 having at least one electrode 90. System 10further includes a high voltage generator 100 coupled between the firstand second electrode arrays. Electrodes 70 and electrodes 90 may have avariety of shapes. For example, electrodes 70 may be thin electricalwires, and electrodes 90 may be larger wires, rods, or other shapes.Electrodes 70 may be pointed or pin-like, and electrodes 90 may becurvilinear, including ring shaped, or may comprise a conductive platewith curved or ring-like openings formed in the plate. Electrodes 90typically are symmetrically disposed relative to electrodes 70. Forexample, if there are three electrodes 70 in first electrode array 60,there might be two electrodes 90 in second electrode array 80, whereinelectrodes 90 are staggered to be equidistant from the nearestelectrodes 70. In the pin and ring type configurations, electrodes 90are preferably concentric with electrodes 70.

[0005] In the various configurations, all of the electrodes areelectrically conductive material, metal for example Electrodes 90preferably have a larger radius than electrodes 70, with the result thata large electric field is created at or adjacent electrodes 90 uponapplication of high voltage (typically several kV) from generator 100.As a result, ozone and ionized particles of air are generated withindevice 10, and there is an electro-kinetic flow of air in the directionfrom the first electrode array 60 towards the second electrode array 80.In FIG. 1, the large arrow denoted IN represents ambient air that canenter input port 30. The small “x's” denote particulate matter that maybe present in the incoming ambient air. The air movement is in thedirection of the large arrows, and the output airflow, denoted OUT,exits device 10 via port 40. An advantage of electro-kinetic devicessuch as device 10 is that an air flow is created without using fans orother moving parts to create the air flow.

[0006] Preferably particulate matter x in the ambient air can beelectrostatically attracted to the second electrode array 80, with theresult that the outflow (OUT) of air from device 10 not only containsozone and ionized air, but can be cleaner than the ambient air. In suchdevices, it can become necessary to occasionally clean the secondelectrode array electrodes 80 to remove particulate matter and otherdebris from the surface of electrodes 90. Thus, device 10 in FIG. 1 canfunction somewhat as a fan to create an output air flow, but withoutrequiring moving parts. Ideally the outflow of air (OUT) is conditionedin that particulate matter is removed and the outflow includes safeamounts of ozone, and some ions.

[0007] But an outflow of air containing ions and ozone may not destroyor reduce microorganisms such as germs, bacteria, fungi, viruses, andthe like, collectively hereinafter “microorganisms”. It is known in theart to try to destroy such microorganisms with so-called germicidallamps. Such lamps emit ultra violet radiation having a wavelength ofabout 254 nm. For example, devices to condition air using mechanicalfans, HEPA filters, and germicidal lamps are sold commercially bycompanies such as Austin Air, C.A.R.E. 2000, Amaircare, and others.Often the devices are somewhat cumbersome, and have size and bulk of asmall filing cabinet. In such devices, care must be taken to ensure thatultraviolet radiation from the germicidal lamp cannot be viewed bynearby persons, to prevent eye injury. Although such fan-powered devicescan reduce or destroy microorganisms, the devices tend to be bulky, andare not necessarily silent in operation.

[0008] What is needed is a device to condition air in a room that canoperate relatively silently to remove particulate matter in the air,that can preferably output safe amounts of ozone, and that can also killor reduce microorganisms such as germs, fungi, bacteria, viruses, andthe like.

[0009] The present invention provides such a device.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0010] In a first aspect, the invention provides an electro-kineticionizing device with a baffle mechanism and a germicidal lamp housedwithin the device such that the baffle mechanism precludes lampultraviolet radiation from being viewed by humans. In one configuration,the germicidal lamp is disposed vertically within a somewhat tubularhousing, with an array of first and second electrodes disposed axiallyat one lamp end. In an alternative embodiment, there is an array offirst and second electrodes disposed axially at each lamp end. In thevarious embodiments, intake and outlet vents at each end of the housingpromote flow of electro-kinetically moved air without permitting viewingof the lamp radiation.

[0011] Preferred electrode array configurations include pin-ring andelongated pin-ring electrodes, including pin electrodes formed from anarc or ring of tapered conductive material, and symmetrically disposedarrays of electrodes formed as a single component. The electrodes in anarray preferably are symmetrically disposed with respect to each other,and like in the air flow path. Efficacy of the germicidal lamp indestroying bacterial, virus, germs, etc. in the air flow appears to beproportional to the length of time the airflow is subjected to radiationfrom the lamp. Thus the preferred embodiments of the invention disposethe longitudinal axis of the germicidal lamp parallel to the long axisof the electro-kinetic device.

[0012] If desired, moisture containing material such as Porex may beincluded to augment moisture content in the outflow of conditioned air.In one embodiment, a personal-sized portable device is provided thatincludes electro-kinetically generated airflow with ions and ozone inthe output, reduced particulate matter in the output airflow, and withreduced or eliminated microorganisms as a result of ultravioletradiation generated from a germicidal type lamp within the device. In analternative embodiment, the electro-kinetic components may be replacedby a small battery operated fan, to yield a personal device that outputsair substantially devoid of microorganisms. A Porex type element mayalso be included to allow a user to augment moisture content in the airoutflow.

[0013] Other features and advantages of the invention will appear fromthe following description in which the preferred embodiments have beenset forth in detail, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0014]FIG. 1 depicts a generic electro-kinetic conditioner device thatoutputs ionized air and ozone, according to the prior art;

[0015] FIGS. 2A-2F depict embodiments of electro-kinetic conditionerdevices with enhanced ability to diminish, inhibit, or destroymicroorganisms such as germs, bacteria, and viruses, according to thepresent invention;

[0016]FIG. 3A is a view of an electrode system comprising concentricrings of first array electrodes and second array electrodes, accordingto the present invention;

[0017]FIG. 3B is a simplified cross-sectional side view of a portion ofan electrode system such as shown in FIG. 3A, according to the presentinvention;

[0018]FIG. 4A is a breakaway view of a personal conditioner device thatincludes a germicidal lamp, a moisture-enhancing component, and anelectro-kinetic air mover and/or an electric fan air mover, according tothe present invention; and

[0019]FIG. 4B depicts the device of FIG. 4A, worn around the neck of auser, according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0020]FIG. 2A depicts a first embodiment of a device 200 that provideselectro-kinetic conditioning of ambient air, with improved ability todiminish or destroy microorganisms including bacteria, germs, andviruses. As will now be described, device 200 takes ambient air (IN)that may include such microorganisms, as well as particulate matter(depicted as x). Further, without using moving components, device 10outputs conditioned air (OUT) that has at least some particulate matterremoved, that includes ions, safe amounts of ozone, and is freer of suchmicroorganisms.

[0021] Device 200 includes a housing 210 that comprises a base portion220, a main portion 230, and an upper portion 240 that also serves as alight baffle. Housing 210 includes at least one ambient air intake vent250, and at least one conditioned air outlet vent 260. As used herein,it will be understood that intake vent 250 is “upstream” relative tooutlet vent 260, or that outlet vent 260 is “downstream” from intakevent 250. “Upstream” and “downstream” describe the general flow of airinto, through, and out of device 200, as indicated by the large hollowarrows.

[0022] One role of housing 210 is to prevent a nearby human, shown as270, from viewing preferably ultraviolet (UV) radiations or emanations280 generated by a UV lamp 290 disposed within the housing. UV lamp 290is a so-called UV-C lamp that preferably emits radiation havingwavelength of about 254 nm, which wavelength is effective in diminishingor destroying bacteria, germs, and viruses to which it is exposed. Lamps290 are commercially available, for example the Phillips model TUO25W/G25 T8, a 25 W tubular lamp measuring about 25 mm in diameter byabout 43 cm in length. Another suitable lamp is the Phillips TUO 8WG8T6, an 8 W lamp measuring about 15 mm in diameter by about 29 cm inlength. Other lamps that emit the desired wavelength may instead beused.

[0023] The efficacy of radiation 280 upon microorganism depends upon thelength of time such organisms are subjected to the radiation. Thus inthe preferred embodiments, lamp 290 is disposed within housing 210 suchthat the longitudinal axis of the lamp is parallel to theupstream-to-downstream airflow within the housing.

[0024] In the configuration of FIG. 2A, lamp 210 is disposed parallel tobut not coaxially with the airstream that is created preferablyelectro-kinetically within device 200. An electro-kinetic airflow iscreated in the following fashion. Electrode assembly 310 comprises afirst electrode array 320A and a second electrode array 330A. In theembodiment of FIG. 2A, array 320A comprises a single pin-typeelectrically conductive electrode that preferably terminates in a point.In FIG. 2A, array 330A comprises a ring-like electrode that may beconstructed from an electrically conductive cylinder. Preferably theedges of this electrode facing electrode 320A are somewhat rounded suchthat the effective radius R2 of these edges is much larger than theeffective radius R1 of electrode 320A. The ratio R2:R1 should be atleast ten, and preferably fifteen or more.

[0025] A high voltage pulse generator 340 is coupled between electrodesin the first electrode array 320A and electrodes in the second electrodearray 330A. Generator 340A receives low input voltage, e.g., 115 VAC to230 VAC or in some embodiments battery-supplied 6 VDC to 12 VDC andgenerates high voltage pulses of at least 10 KV peak-to-peak with arepetition rate of about 20 KHz. The pulse train output preferably has aduty cycle of perhaps 10%, especially in battery-operated embodiments,but may have other duty cycles including 100% duty cycle. High voltagepulse generator 340 may be implemented in many ways, and typically willcomprise a low voltage oscillator operating at perhaps 20 KHz frequencythat outputs low voltage pulses to an electronic switch such as athyristor. The thyristor or other switch couples the low voltage pulsesto the input winding of a step-up transformer whose secondary winding iscoupled to a high voltage multiplier circuit outputting the high voltagepulses. The various circuits and components comprising high voltagepulse generator 340 may be fabricated on a printed circuit board mountedwithin housing 210, for example in the housing base portion 220.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 2A, device 200 may include additional circuitry350, for example a voltage conditioner to provide proper operatingvoltage for lamp (or lamps) 290, a circuit to allow device 200 tofunction for a certain amount of time, etc.

[0027] In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the positive output terminal ofgenerator 340 is coupled to the second electrode array 330A, and thenegative output terminal is coupled to the first electrode array 320A.This coupling polarity has been found to work well, including minimizingunwanted audible electrode vibration or hum. However the oppositepolarity could instead be used, e.g., negative port of generator 340coupled to electrode(s) 330A and positive port coupled to electrode(s)320A. As noted, the geometry of electrode(s) 320A is such that at leastone relatively narrow or sharp point terminus exists. As oneconsequence, when voltage or pulses from high voltage pulse generator340 are coupled across the first and second electrode arrays, it isbelieved that a plasma-like field is created surrounding first arrayelectrode(s) 320A. This electric field ionizes the ambient air betweenthe first and second electrode arrays and establishes an “OUT” airflowthat moves in a downstream direction, towards the second arrayelectrode(s) 330A. It is understood that the IN flow of ambient air canenter via vent(s) 250, that the electro-kinetically generated air flowsin the direction of and at least partially through electrode(s) 330A,that the air flow is subjected to UV radiation 280, and exits device 200as OUT, via one or more outlet vents 260. In the process, particulatematter (shown as x) entrained in the air flow can becomeelectrostatically attached to the surface of electrode(s) 330A, asindicated in FIG. 2A.

[0028] It is believed that ozone and ions are generated simultaneouslyby the first array electrode(s) 320A, essentially as a function of thepotential from generator 340 coupled to the first array. Ozonegeneration may be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing thepotential at the first array. Coupling an opposite polarity potential tothe second array electrode(s) 330A essentially accelerates the motion ofions generated at the first array, producing the air flow denoted as“OUT” in the figures. As the ions move toward the second array, it isbelieved that they push or move air molecules toward the second array.The relative velocity of this motion may be increased by decreasing thepotential at the second array relative to the potential at the firstarray.

[0029] For example, if +10 KV were applied to the first arrayelectrode(s), and no potential were applied to the second arrayelectrode(s), a cloud of ions (whose net charge is positive) would formadjacent the first electrode array. Further, the relatively high 10 KVpotential would generate substantial local concentration of ozone. Bycoupling a relatively negative potential to the second arrayelectrode(s), the velocity of the air mass moved by the net emitted ionsincreases, as momentum of the moving ions is conserved. This airmovement dilutes the ozone concentration adjacent the first arrayelectrodes, allowing the ozone concentration to be maintained at safelevels.

[0030] On the other hand, if it were desired to maintain the sameeffective outflow (OUT) velocity but to generate less ozone, theexemplary 10 KV potential could be divided between the electrode arrays.For example, generator 340 could provide +4 KV (or some other fraction)to the first array electrode(s) and −6 KV (or some other fraction) tothe second array electrode(s). In this example, it is understood thatthe +4 KV and the −6 KV are measured relative to ground. Understandablyit is desired that the present invention operate to output safe amountsof ozone. Accordingly, the high voltage is preferably fractionalizedwith about +4 KV applied to the first array electrode(s) and about −6 KVapplied to the second array electrodes.

[0031] As noted, outflow (OUT) preferably includes safe amounts of O₃that can destroy or at least substantially alter bacteria, germs, andother living (or quasi-living) matter subjected to the outflow. Inpreliminary experiments, it appears that subjecting the airstream to UVradiation 280 can somehow reduce the concentration of O₃ that is presentin the OUT flow. Possibly the UV radiation hastens the disassociation ofoxygen atoms comprising the ozone, but applicants have not thoroughlyinvestigated this phenomenon. Understandably decreasing O₃concentration, e.g., through use of UV lamp 290, can permit a highervelocity of OUT airflow, without necessarily increasing O₃ toundesirably high concentrations.

[0032] In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, device 200 has a cylindrical-shapedhousing that is about 24″ tall, and about 6″ in cross-section ordiameter. Input and output vents 250,260 are preferably are each shapedas an annulus with an opening height of perhaps 0.5″, although otherconfigurations could be used. The housing preferably is made from alightweight inexpensive material, ABS plastic for example. The lowersurface of upper housing member 240 may be formed with a non-smoothfinish or a non-light reflecting finish or color, to minimize a user 270viewing reflected radiation 280 from lamp 290. As suggested by FIG. 2A,housing portion 240 preferably has a curved shape to direct the OUTairflow from a vertical orientation to an orientation that includes ahorizontal component.

[0033] Ring-like electrode(s) 330A preferably have a cross-section ordiameter of perhaps 2″ to 4″ and a length (upstream to downstream) ofabout 4″ to 6″. The electrode(s) may be formed from a cylinder or tubeof metal, aluminum, stainless steel, etc. The pointed electrode(s) 320Aare preferably made from a durable conductor such as tungsten, thebetter to withstand ionization effects. The length of the pointedportion of electrode(s) 320A is preferably at least 0.5″, and thespaced-apart distance from the distal tip of electrode(s) 320A to thepreferably curved or circular opening formed in electrode(s) 330A isabout 1″. Especially good electro-kinetic transport action can resultwhen electrode(s) 320A are substantially coaxially and symmetricallydisposed with respect to electrode(s) 330A. Thus, in FIG. 2A, thelongitudinal axis of electrode(s) 320A and 331A are substantiallycoaxial.

[0034] Preferably operating parameters of the present invention are setduring manufacture and are not user-adjustable. For example, increasingthe peak-to-peak output voltage and/or duty cycle in the high voltagepulses generated by unit 340 can increase air flowrate, ion content, andozone content. In the preferred embodiment, output flowrate is at leastabout 200 feet/minute, ion content is about 2,000,000/cc and ozonecontent is about 40 ppb (over ambient) to perhaps 2,000 ppb (overambient). As described herein, decreasing the second electrode/firstelectrode radius of curvature R2/R1 ratio below about 20:1 will decreaseflow rate, as will decreasing the peak-to-peak voltage and/or duty cycleof the high voltage pulses coupled between the first and secondelectrode arrays.

[0035] Within device 200, the electro-kinetically created airstream issubjected to sufficient radiation from lamp 290 for a sufficiently longtime to substantially diminish if not destroy microorganisms that werepresent in the incoming ambient air. Thus, the output air (OUT) isconditioned in that particulate matter tends to precipitateelectrostatically to the surface of electrode(s) 330A and be removedfrom the airflow, and microorganisms such as germs, fungi, bacteria, andviruses are substantially if not completely removed. Some ions arepresent in the output air, which can be beneficial, as are safe amountsof O₃. Occasionally it may be desirable to clean electrode(s) 330A so asto remove deposited particulate matter x from the electrode surface.

[0036] In the embodiment of FIG. 2B, electrical leads from lamp 290 tocircuit 350 are omitted for ease of illustration, and lamp 290 is nowshown disposed substantially coaxially with the electrode system 310 andwith the airflow. It is understood that an advantage of coaxial lampmounting is that essentially all of the radiated UV 280 may affect theairflow, whereas in the embodiment of FIG. 2A, some of the radiationmust reflect from the interior wall surface of housing portion 230before it can affect any portion of the airflow. If desired, multiplelamps 290 may be used, including at least one lamp mounted off-axis(e.g., FIG. 2A) and one lamp mounted coaxially (e.g., FIG. 2B).

[0037] Note too in FIG. 2B that the edges of electrode(s) 330A′ facingupstream (e.g., towards electrode(s) 320A) have been chambered orrounded. Chambering is a preferred implementation of electrode(s) 330Ain that beginning at the electrode regions facing electrode(s) 320A andcontinuing toward the opposite, downstream direction, a smooth andcontinuous second electrode array electrode surface is presented.

[0038] In the configuration of FIG. 2C, electrode(s) 320A areimplemented using a portion of carbon or other material 320A′ thatterminates in a plurality of individual fibers, as shown. Various of thefibers act as individual pointed or pin-like electrodes. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 2C, the various fibers are essentiallycoaxially disposed with respect to ring-like electrodes 330A or 330A′.

[0039]FIG. 2D depicts a configuration in which ring-like electrode(s)are configured as 330A″, a rather elongated cylindrical member with asmoothly outwardly flared edge in the upstream direction. In thisconfiguration it can be advantageous to mount lamp 290 from one end.Again, for ease of illustration, electrical wires coupling lamp 290 toits power source have been omitted from the drawing. Note the inclusionof optional vanes 360, disposed within housing 210 so as tointentionally retard velocity of the airflow. These vanes can impart avortex-like spin to the moving air, slowing the rate of flow, whichincreases the effective dwell time that UV radiation 280 from lamp 290can act upon the airstream. It is understood that vanes 360 may also beincluded in the other configurations described, and to be described. InFIG. 2D, the diameter of electrode(s) 330A″ may be 4″ or so, and thelength may be 12″ or so, although other dimensions may be used. WhileFIG. 2D depicts electrode(s) 330A″ as coupled to the positive port ofhigh voltage pulse generator 340, it is understood that polarity of thepulses coupled to the first array and second array electrodes may infact be reversed from what is shown.

[0040]FIG. 2E depicts a cascade configuration of first and second arrayelectrodes that has been found to reduce audible hissing-like noise thatcan emanate from device 200. In this configuration, a pair of firstarray electrodes 320A, 320B are electrically series coupled to one portof high voltage generator 340, and a pair of second array electrodes330A′, 330B′ are electrically series coupled to the other port of highvoltage generator 340. The electrodes within a pair are preferablysubstantially symmetrically or coaxially disposed with respect to eachother. Thus, electrode 320A is symmetrically and in this case alsocoaxially disposed with respect to electrode 330A′, and electrode 320Bis symmetrically and in this case also coaxially disposed with respectto electrode 330B′. Differently shaped ring-like electrodes 330A′ and330B′ are depicted to suggest the relative freedom of design thatexists. However in the various configurations, the R2/R1>10 ratiodescribed earlier is preferably met.

[0041] Also shown in FIG. 2E is an optional ring (or otherconfiguration) of moisture-retaining material 390, disposed adjacent atleast one outlet port 260 as to present the least resistance to theoutflow of air. In the preferred embodiment, moisture-retaining member390 is a hollow collar-like cylinder, perhaps 0.125″ thick of Porex™UHMW X-4901 material, that can be moistened with water, with scent,perhaps with medication (e.g., asthma medication). Such material has apolyethylene base, exhibits a wicking action, and can absorb and retainsubstantial amounts of moisture. A user can periodically moisten thismaterial, and the outflow of air (OUT) can contain not only beneficialamounts of ozone, some ions, relatively little particulate matter, andpreferably little or no microorganisms, but may have increased humidity,if so desired by a user. Such material 390 may be included in the otherconfigurations of the present invention described herein.

[0042]FIG. 2F depicts a configuration of the present invention in whichhousing 210 provides intake ports or vents 250 at an upper region andoutput ports or vents 260 at a lower region. In this configuration,germicidal UV lamp 290 is shown disposed in a lower region of thehousing. Although FIG. 2F depicts a specific configuration of pin-likeand ring-like electrodes, it is understood that other electrodeconfigurations and/or additional electrode configurations could be usedto establish a desired electro-kinetic airflow, to establishprecipitation of particulate matter x in the incoming ambient air, tooutput ions, and to output safe amounts of ozone. Note that a collar orother configuration of moisture containing material 260 may optionallybe provided.

[0043] Turning now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a compact configuration for anelectrode system 310 is shown that can create the same total volume ofair flow as can be generated from larger configuration electrodesystems. The system is especially robust and can be removed from adevice housing and cleaned of accumulated particulate particles andother matter, by being washed in an ordinary household dishwasher. FIG.3B depicts force field lines resulting from application of high voltagefrom generator 340 across the electrode system.

[0044] In the configuration of FIG. 3A, a plurality of concentricallydisposed first array electrodes 320A are disposed upstream from aplurality of concentrically disposed second array electrodes 330A. Asbest seen in FIG. 3B, the distal ends (the ends facing downstream or tothe right in the figure) preferably are tapered or pointed or sharp. Todepict the flexibility of design, the tapered distal end points of thefirst array electrodes 320A are shown essentially flush with each otherin FIG. 3B, although they could instead be staggered. By contrast, theupstream facing preferably curved distal ends of second array electrodes330A are shown staggered, although they could instead be flush with eachother.

[0045] The first array electrodes 320A may be machined or otherwiseformed from a durable metal, and are connected to each otherelectrically and to one output port of high voltage pulse generator 340,for example the positive port. The second array electrodes 330Asimilarly are formed from a durable metal and are connected to eachother electrically and to the other end of the high voltage pulsegenerator 340. In this configuration as in the other electrodeconfigurations, it is understood that one of the output ports orterminals of high voltage pulse generator 340 may in fact be at the samepotential as ambient air.

[0046] The configuration shown in FIG. 3A may be perhaps 6″ to 8″ inouter diameter, perhaps 4″ to 10″ in length, with a spacing betweenadjacent concentric rings of elements 320A or of elements 330A ofperhaps 0.25″ to 0.5″. Other dimensions may instead be used, however. Ifdesired, the configuration of FIG. 3A may be slightly modified to useoffset spiral configurations for electrodes 320A and for 330A. Spiralconfigurations can simplify manufacturing as well as the electricallyconnections to the electrodes.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 3B, particulate matter (depicted as x) in theincoming air (IN) will tend to electrostatically adhere to the surfaceof the downstream second array electrodes 330A. The output airflow(OUT), however, will be relatively free of such particulate matter, andwill contain ions and safe amounts of O₃. Further, the presence of agermicidal-type UV lamp 290 (not shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B) will ensure thatmicroorganisms present in the incoming air will be substantiallyeliminated in the air outflow (OUT). It is further understood that, ifdesired, a ring or rings (or other configuration) of moisture retainingmaterial 390 may be disposed, preferably adjacent a downstream portionof electrode assembly 310.

[0048]FIG. 4A is a perspective, breakaway view of a battery operablepersonal device 400, showing housing 410 as comprising an upper housingmember 420 that includes intake vents 250, a lower housing member 430and can house, among other components, batteries B1 to power device 400,and includes a battery hatch 440 to provide access to B1. An ON/OFFswitch S1 can couple B1 to the high voltage generator and circuitry 340,350 within housing 410. Housing 410 further includes a front housingportion 450 and provides outlet vents 260. In the preferred embodiment,the interior area of at least a portion of the outlet area includes foamlike fluid-retaining material 260, as described above, which material,when wet, can augment humidity of the output airflow OUT.

[0049] In the embodiment shown, airflow preferably iselectro-kinetically generated with an electrode system 310 that includestwo pairs of electrode arrays. Alternatively, or in addition, a smallDC-powered fan 500 may be included to create an airflow, albeit withoutgenerating ozone and/or ions. In FIG. 4A, pin-like and ring-likeelectrodes 320A and 330B′. First array electrodes 320A may be as shownin FIGS. 2A-2F, and second array electrodes 330B′ preferably are flared,as shown in FIG. 2E. Each pin-like or pointed electrode 320A is upstreamand preferably coaxial from a ring-like electrode 330B′. A collar ofmoisture retaining material 390 is disposed within housing portion 450so as to be subjected to the airflow passing through the smooth andcontinuous interior surface of an adjacent electrode 330B′.

[0050] Device 400 further includes a germicidal type UV lamp 290, suchas described earlier herein. Lamp 290 is disposed within housing 410 sothat the airflow (whether created electro-kinetically or by fan 500) issubjected to UV radiation from the lamp

[0051]FIG. 4B shows device 400 suspended from the neck of a user by acord 510. The battery operated device 400 lends itself to use in crowdedareas such as motor vehicles, airplanes, etc. where the ambient airmight be less than pristine. The inclusion of lamp 290 within device 400will promote the destruction of germs, bacteria, fungi, viruses in theoutput airflow (OUT). The electro-kinetic generation of the airflowpromotes silent operation of device 400, serves to output air that hasbeen at least partially cleaned of particulate matter, and that caninclude ions and/or ozone. Further, the inclusion of wettable material390 allows the wearer or user of device 400 to augment moisture in theoutflow of air, and/or to add scented liquid and/or medication tofurther augment the nature and quality of the output airflow. Althoughdevice 400 is shown worn around a user's body in FIG. 4B, device 400 mayalso be placed on an automobile dashboard and, if desired, powered fromthe vehicle battery.

[0052] Modifications and variations may be made to the disclosedembodiments without departing from the subject and spirit of theinvention as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for conditioning air, comprising: ahousing defining an input port and an output port, and an air channeltherebetween; an electro-kinetic system, disposed in the housing, tocreate an airflow moving from the input port to the output port, throughthe air channel, without the use of moving parts; a germicidalultraviolet lamp that emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation upon beingenergized, the germicidal lamp disposed in the housing such that UVradiation emitted from the lamp radiates at least a portion of the airchannel; and at least one vane disposed within the air channel andpositioned so as to intentionally retard velocity of the airflow, tothereby increase an effective dwell time that UV radiation emitted fromthe lamp can act upon the airflow.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the air channel comprises an elongated channel that has a greater lengththan width; and wherein the at least one vane extends across at leasthalf of the width of the elongated channel.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the at least one vane is angled with respect to the a normaldirection of the airflow so as to impart a vortex-like spin to theairflow.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the air channel comprisesan elongated channel that has a greater length than width; and the lampcomprises an elongated cylindrical shaped lamp positioned within the airchannel generally parallel to the length of the channel, the therebyincrease an exposure time, of the airflow through the elongated channel,to UV radiation emitted from the lamp.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4,wherein the at least one vane extends across at least half of the widthof the elongated channel.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the atleast one vane is angled with respect to the a normal direction of theairflow so as to impart a vortex-like spin to the airflow.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one vane is angled withrespect to the a normal direction of the airflow so as to impart avortex-like spin to the airflow.
 8. The apparatus of claim 4, whereinthe elongated cylindrical shaped lamp includes first and second distalends, the first distal end being closer to the input port than to theoutput port, the second distal end being closer to the output port thanto the input port; and wherein the at least one vane includes: a firstvane located near the first distal end of the lamp so as to retardvelocity of a portion of the airflow about to enter a region of the airchannel adjacent to the lamp; and a second vane located near the seconddistal end of the lamp so as to retard velocity of a portion of theairflow about to exit the region of the air channel adjacent to thelamp.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each of the first and secondvanes is angled with respect to the a normal direction of the airflow soas to impart a vortex-like spin to the airflow.
 10. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein the at least one vane further comprises an intermediatevane located between the first and second vanes.
 11. The apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein each of the vanes is angled with respect to the anormal direction of the airflow so as to impart a vortex-like spin tothe airflow.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lamp includesfirst and second distal ends, the first end being closer to the inputport than to the output port, the second end being closer to the outputport than to the input port; and wherein the at least one vane includes:a first vane located near the first distal end of the lamp so as toretard velocity of a portion of the airflow about to enter a region ofthe air channel adjacent the lamp; and a second vane located near thesecond distal end of the lamp to retard velocity of a portion of theairflow about to exit the region of the air channel adjacent the lamp.13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein each of the first and secondvanes is angled with respect to the a normal direction of the airflow soas to impart a vortex-like spin to the airflow.
 14. The apparatus ofclaim 12, wherein the at least one vane further comprises anintermediate vane located between the first and second vanes.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 13, wherein each of the vanes is angled with respectto the a normal direction of the airflow so as to impart a vortex-likespin to the airflow.
 16. An apparatus for conditioning air, comprising:a housing defining an input port and an output port, and an air channeltherebetween; an electro-kinetic system, disposed in the housing, tocreate an airflow moving from the input port to the output port throughthe air channel, the electro-kinetic system including: a first electrodearray; a second electrode array downstream from the first electrodearray; and a high voltage generator adapted to provide a potentialdifference between the first electrode array and the second electrodearray; the second electrode array including an elongated hollowelectrode; the first electrode array including a pin-like electrode thatis generally co-axial with the elongated hollow electrode of the secondelectrode array; and a germicidal ultraviolet lamp that emitsultraviolet (UV) radiation upon being energized, the germicidal lampdisposed in the housing such that UV radiation emitted from the lampradiates at least a portion of the air channel.
 17. The apparatus ofclaim 15, wherein the lamp is positioned downstream from the elongatedhollow electrode of the second electrode array.
 18. The apparatus ofclaim 15, wherein at least a portion of the lamp is positioned withinthe elongated hollow electrode of the second electrode array.
 19. Theapparatus of claim 15, wherein a majority of the lamp is positionedwithin the elongated hollow electrode of the second electrode array. 20.The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising at least one vanepositioned within the elongated hollow electrode of the second electrodearray, so as to intentionally retard velocity of the airflow, to therebyincrease an effective dwell time that UV radiation emitted from the lampcan act upon the airflow.
 21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the atleast one vane extends across at least halfofa width of the elongatedhollow electrode.
 22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the at leastone vane is angled with respect to the a normal direction of the airflowso as to impart a vortex-like spin to the airflow.
 23. The apparatus ofclaim 15, further comprising: at least one vane disposed within the airchannel and positioned so as to intentionally retard velocity of theairflow, to thereby increase an effective dwell time that UV radiationemitted from the lamp can act upon the airflow.
 24. The apparatus ofclaim 22, wherein the at least one vane is angled with respect to the anormal direction of the airflow so as to impart a vortex-like spin tothe airflow.
 25. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the pin-likeelectrode tapers from abase to a distal end that is directed toward thehollow elongated electrode.
 26. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein thepin-like electrode terminates in a plurality of individual fibers thatact as individual pointed electrodes.
 27. An apparatus for conditioningair, comprising: a housing defining an input port and an output port,and an air channel therebetween; an electro-kinetic system, disposed inthe housing, to create an airflow moving from the input port to theoutput port, through the air channel; a germicidal ultraviolet lamp thatemits ultraviolet (UV) radiation upon being energized, the germicidallamp disposed in the housing such that UV radiation emitted from thelamp radiates at least a portion of the air channel; first and secondvanes disposed within the air channel and positioned so as tointentionally retard velocity of the airflow, to thereby increase aneffective dwell time that UV radiation emitted from the lamp can actupon the airflow, the second vane being located downstream from thefirst vane.
 28. An apparatus for conditioning air, comprising: a housingdefining an input port and an output port, and an elongated air channeltherebetween, the elongated air channel having a greater length thanwidth; an electro-kinetic system, disposed in the housing, to create anairflow moving from the input port to the output port, through the airchannel; a germicidal ultraviolet lamp that emits ultraviolet (UV)radiation upon being energized, the germicidal lamp disposed in thehousing such that UV radiation emitted from the lamp radiates at least aportion of the air channel; and first and second vanes disposed withinthe air channel and positioned so as to intentionally retard velocity ofthe airflow, to thereby increase an effective dwell time that UVradiation emitted from the lamp can act upon the airflow, the secondvane being located downstream from the first vane.
 29. The apparatus ofclaim 27, wherein each of the first and second vanes are angled withrespect to the a normal direction of the airflow so as to impart avortex-like spin to the airflow.
 30. An apparatus for conditioning air,comprising: a housing defining an input port and an output port, and anelongated air channel therebetween that has a greater length than width;an electro-kinetic system, disposed in the housing, to create an airflowmoving from the input port to the output port, through the elongated airchannel; a germicidal ultraviolet lamp that emits ultraviolet (UV)radiation upon being energized, the germicidal lamp disposed in thehousing such that UV radiation emitted from the lamp radiates at least aportion of the elongated air channel; and the lamp comprises anelongated cylindrical shaped lamp positioned within the elongated airchannel generally parallel to the length of the channel, the therebyincrease an exposure time, of the airflow through the elongated channel,to UV radiation emitted from the lamp.
 31. An apparatus for conditioningair, comprising: a housing defining an input port and an output port; anelectro-kinetic system, disposed in the housing, to create an airflowmoving from the input port to the output port, the electro-kineticsystem including: a first electrode array; a second electrode arraydownstream from the first electrode array; and a high voltage generatoradapted to provide a potential difference between the first electrodearray and the second electrode array; the second electrode arrayincluding an elongated tubular collector electrode; the first electrodearray including an emitter electrode upstream from the elongatedcollector electrode of the second electrode array; and a germicidalultraviolet lamp that emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation upon beingenergized, the germicidal lamp disposed in the housing such that UVradiation emitted from the lamp radiates at least a portion of aninterior of the elongated tubular collector electrode.
 32. The apparatusof claim 30, further comprising at least one vane positioned so as tointentionally retard velocity of a portion of the airflow in proximityto the interior of the elongated tubular electrode, to thereby increasean effective dwell time that UV radiation emitted from the lamp can actupon the airflow.